We’re kicking off our Giants summer questionnaire series this week as the team begins a much-deserved down period before they report to training camp on July 26 at the Timex Performance Center, not Albany.

Today, we chat with punter Steve Weatherford, who talks about preparing for life after football and his offseason workout regimen:

You’re participating in the NFL Broadcast Boot Camp at NFL Films this week. Is getting into the media after your playing career a goal of yours?

It’s something I might be interested in when I’m done playing. I’m not really thinking about retirement at this point but it’s always good to prepare yourself because you never know when your last day will be. All it takes is on bad play and your knees could be gone.”

Do you see a niche for punters and kickers in the media as far as them specializing in the kicking game?

I don’t think there’s going to be a demand for kickers or punters. I want to be viewed as an NFL veteran, not just a punter. What makes me different is I’ve played on a lot of successful teams: the Saints, the Jets, the Giants. Of course, with special teams I know what I’m talking about. I’m going to this camp to work on my delivery skills and just learning what to expect if I decide to get into the business.
You’re known as a workout warrior. Do you down shift a bit in the offseason?

When I don’t have practice, I probably work out more. I’ll work out three to four hours a day in the offseason. I always go to San Diego – that’s where I plan to retire – and train with (former NFL kicker) John Carney. He’s the guy who five weeks before training camp kind of helps me sharpen my skill and obviously I want to make some gains in the weight room. I tried to report to camp a little stronger and heavier than I need to be because training camp wears you down and I should be about where I want to be at the end of camp.

What has your stay with the Giants been like compared to the Jets?

It's been a dream come true. I enjoyed playing for Rex Ryan but the special teams coach (Mike Westhoff) was very difficult to get along with both on and off the field. Here, the Giants have treated me great since the moment I walked in here. I show up early and leave late and give everything I have. I think the Giants have an appreciation for that. I absolutely love being here. I'd play for free.